We always thought headphones only had two speakers on board, one for each ear, but accessory maker Terratec this week laughed at the conventional configuration with a pair of cans that contains six cones, three for each ear, to deliver "true 5.1 surround sound". It's also got a mic.

The Headset Master 5.1 USB connects, as it's name suggests, to a spare USB port. Between computer and cans sits a a dongle that does the sound processing and allows you to control the directionality of the sound you hear, change the volume, boost or reduce the sub-woofer bass.

Aimed at gamers, the Headset Master 5.1 USB provides a "snug fit", Terratec claimed, that "guarantees perfect comfort" even after many a long hour spent in multi-player combat. But the set's equally at home with DVD playback, the company said.

Available now, the Headset Master 5.1 USB retails for around £45. ®